The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus & The Future

Scripture References: Matthew 24:32-51; Matthew 25:1-30

Intro: Welcome to this sermon exploring Jesus' teachings on His return from the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25). Often, discussions about the end times lead to obsession, apathy, fear, or over-complication. Jesus, however, used simple parables to teach His followers how to live ready.

Key Points: (Parables of Preparedness)

1. Be Watchful (Noah/Thief Parables - Matt 24:36-44): Jesus' return will be unexpected, like the flood in Noah's day or a thief at night. The timing is unknown ("no one knows... but the Father"). Therefore, the command is to "stay awake"—live in a constant state of spiritual readiness and expectancy. (Note: "Taken" likely refers to judgment, not pre-tribulation rapture).
2. Be Faithful (Faithful/Wicked Servant Parable - Matt 24:45-51): Readiness involves faithfully carrying out the responsibilities God has given us, especially caring for His household. Presuming the Master's delay leads to neglect, abuse, and self-indulgence, resulting in judgment. Faithful service in ordinary life is key.
3. Be Wise (Ten Virgins Parable - Matt 25:1-13): True readiness requires inner preparation, not just outward appearance. The wise virgins had extra oil (representing inner spiritual life, intimacy with God via the Holy Spirit) for their lamps (outward testimony/works). When the wait is long, only those with deep reserves endure. Intimacy can't be borrowed last minute.
4. Be Fruitful (Parable of the Talents - Matt 25:14-30): Preparation involves actively using the unique gifts, resources, and opportunities ("talents"—significant sums) God entrusts to us for His kingdom's growth. Burying gifts out of fear (rooted in a wrong view of the Master) leads to loss. Faithfulness involves risk and stewardship.
5. The Urgency & The Assurance: These parables carry a serious warning about being unprepared ("too late") and facing judgment. However, the ultimate Good News is that Jesus, the Judge, was judged for us. Our readiness comes fundamentally through trusting His finished work, which frees us to serve faithfully out of gratitude, not fear.

Conclusion: Jesus calls us to live actively prepared for His return—watchful, faithful in our duties, spiritually full through intimacy with Him, and fruitfully using our gifts for His kingdom. This readiness isn't earned by frantic effort but received through faith in Christ's sacrifice.

Call to Action: Assess your readiness for Christ's return. Are you watchful, faithful, wise, and fruitful? Address any apathy or fear. Commit daily to faithful service, prioritizing intimacy with God, and stewarding His gifts. Find your ultimate preparedness by trusting fully in Jesus' finished work.

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The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus  & The Future (Matthew 24:36-25:30)
with Travis Aicklen, Glenn Power & Hannah Zerlang